Quincy man needs help after loss of longtime partner

Tuesday

One in a series of stories about the people you can help with your donation to The Patriot Ledger's 21st annual holiday charity drive. Thanks to you, we've raised more than $2.8 million since 1998.

PETER'S STORY

Peter was 13 when his father committed suicide. The loss left him with unresolved grief, panic attacks and anxiety.

Now, 66, he is coping with new loss. His partner of nearly 40 years, Beth, died in March. She was 59. His sister and aunt also died within the past few months.

Beth's death drastically changed Peter's financial situation. He has been unable to work since 2011 and receives disability benefits, food and fuel assistance.

Without Beth's income to supplement the household, Peter was unable to pay his rent and came close to being evicted. His landlord is helping by allowing Peter to remain temporarily in his Quincy apartment at a reduced rent, but Peter is still struggling to afford bills and other necessities without Beth's help. He often eats cereal for dinner because his food budget, even with assistance, will not stretch the month.

He worries about feeding himself and caring for his pet cat, concerns that only add to his anxiety.

WHAT PETER NEEDS

Peter receives support for his anxiety and panic attacks from South Shore Mental Health, where he has been a client since 1999. Lend a Hand would help Peter afford more nutritious food, which would go a long way toward relieving his anxiety.

"John received an eviction notice about two weeks after his girlfriend of nearly 40 years died."

Information for this story was provided by South Shore Mental Health. Names were changed to protect privacy.

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